Bengaluru: A 20-year-old youth, identified as Hemanth, son of the personal secretary of former Karnataka Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai, was found dead at his residence in north Bengaluru, police said on Friday.
According to preliminary information, Hemanth was the son of Chandru, who serves as the personal assistant to Bommai. The incident occurred at their house in RMV Second Stage, under the jurisdiction of Sanjayanagar police station.
Police officials said the incident came to light late on Thursday night at the family’s residence in Lottegollahalli, near Sanjayanagar. Hemanth was found hanging inside the house. Family members, who are reportedly in a state of shock, alerted the authorities.
Police begin investigation
A team from the Sanjayanagar police station visited the spot and conducted a preliminary inspection. The body has been shifted for post-mortem examination, and a case of unnatural death has been registered.
Officials said the exact reason behind the alleged suicide is not yet known. Investigators are examining all possible angles and recording statements from family members and close acquaintances to ascertain the circumstances that led to the incident.
Police sources indicated that no suicide note has been recovered so far. Further details are awaited pending the post-mortem report and ongoing inquiry.
Family in shock
Neighbours described the family as quiet and said the news has left the locality stunned. The incident has also drawn attention due to Chandru’s association with senior BJP leader Basavaraj Bommai.
Bommai, who served as Karnataka Chief Minister between 2021 and 2023, is a prominent political figure in the state. There has been no official statement from him regarding the incident at the time of publication.
Call for mental health awareness
While the motive remains unclear, the incident once again highlights the importance of mental health awareness and timely support. Authorities have urged the public not to speculate about the cause of death until the investigation is completed.
Further updates are expected as the police continue their probe.
If you or someone you know is struggling, help is available. You can contact Kiran (Mental Health Rehabilitation Helpline) at 1800-599-0019 or Snehi at 24×7 helpline 91-22-25294949 for confidential support.